hooray-creative-stationery
What first inspired you to go into designing?
Well, it’s been more of a journey. I was always crafty as a kid and took every art class available to me in high school. I landed in a Fine Arts program in college and majored in illustration. Eventually, I became interested in different mediums and transitioned into taking mostly video and film classes. I was also studying Music performance at the same time, so really, you could say I was exploring all possible options and creative outlets. It wasn’t until after college that I started moving towards design because I thought it would be a more practical application of my abilities – meaning, I needed to figure out how to make a living in the real world! Over time (and several on-the-job learning experiences and grad school courses later), I mastered design software and tackled various projects, dabbling in animation, print, web, UX design, and of course, stationery. 🙂
Where do you find your inspiration?
Everywhere! Color palettes and patterns in fashion and textiles, nature and especially my travel experiences. Also, the eye candy I digest just from keeping tabs on my Pinterest and Instagram feeds – there’s always something to spark an idea.
What music are you listening to this month?
Lately, I sort of half-watch/half-listen to whatever’s good on Netflix while I work from home. But when I do listen to music, I gravitate towards indie rock. Some favorites include Radiohead, Arcade Fire, The Joy Formidable, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Air, Interpol, etc.
How do you like your workspace?
It’s usually sort of messy and chaotic and I tend to work late into the night. However, setting up a beautiful, inspiring home office and studio is definitely on my to-do list!
hooray-creative-work
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Do what you love, love what you do! A favorite quote I also try to keep in mind is, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it.”
Your favorite movie? 
Ah, too many to name!! I love old movie musicals, quirky indie flicks and the occasional art film. But I’m super nostalgic over anything made in the 80s and I secretly like sci-fi fantasy adventure movies! On another note, so many awesome TV dramas are being made these days that I’m actually watching more of those now.
You say you are a dessert enthusiast. What is your favorite dessert?
I remember having the most decadent, best ever, amaretto cheesecake when I lived in NY. So good!
 
What memorable responses have you had to your work?
It was years ago, but the reaction to my Senior thesis for my BFA was very memorable!  I spent a year developing the idea and the result was a performance piece with sound and video installation. I received an amazing response to my show from my peers and instructors and it was the first time I felt like an actual artist. Nowadays, I’m enjoying some success as a stationery designer and have really appreciated the opportunities and positive feedback I’ve received so far.